It may be too early, even before the official thread starts. But I couldn't resist.

Who do you think is going to win the FIFA World Cup 2018 - Russia?

My top 4 would be France, Argentina, Brazil & Germany. Well, you simply cannot exclude Germany and Brazil from any WC for their track record. And as long as Messi is there, Argentina will have their chance. But France stands out to me this time for a bunch of players: Griezmann, Pogba, Mbappe, Rabiot, Varane, Umtiti and a good line of keepers. If Dembele, Martial, Payet & Benzema make it to the squad, France will have a fine attacking lineup.

The team I supported all my life couldn't qualify this time. For last decade, Azzuris have been really struggling to come up with young talents. With Italy, Netherlands, Chile & USA not qualifying for Russia, the WC surely lost some charm, but it's still the biggest sports event.

Argentina has no defence at all. Way too Messi dependent. Teams like Iceland, Nigeria and Croatia are not a push over team. If Messi is sidelined due to injury/card, will be surprised if they make it to the knockout round.

My 2nd Favorite team could not make it to Russia. O My Italia

Football is a simple game. Twenty-two men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans always win. Lineker said it so beautifully. Germany has no super stars. But they always bring their A game when the world cup goes on. And it looks like nothing will stop Germany this time either. Germany triumph again

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